Is the intention (Niyyah) a condition for the fulfillment of Zakat?
Chapter on Zakat on Sheep
Al-Mughni
Book of Zakat
Primary text
The intention is a condition for fulfilling the obligation of Zakat according to the majority of jurists. The evidence for this is the Prophet's saying: "Actions are but by intentions," and paying Zakat is an action. Moreover, Zakat is an act of worship that comprises both obligatory (*fard*) and voluntary (*nafl*) aspects, necessitating intention just as prayer does. The intention required is the belief that the payment is the Zakat due upon him or upon the one he is paying on behalf of, such as a minor or an insane person. The place for intention is the heart, as the heart is the locus for all beliefs.
Supporting text
Al-Awza'i holds that intention is not required for Zakat because it is considered a debt, and debts do not require intention, similar to how the guardian of an orphan or the ruler collecting from a defaulter does not require the intent of the obligated person. This view is refuted because Zakat is a form of worship, unlike the repayment of a simple debt, which is voided by a waiver from the creditor, and the actions of guardians or rulers substitute for the obligated party.